Rockliffs find 'hayman' to be political hot potato

AN IDIOT arsonist has struck again and set fire to an election sign made from hay for the second time.

Latrobe Deputy Mayor Rick Rockliff sounded disappointed and philosophical that his creative approach to his son's election advertising signage has ended in more ashes.

Liberal deputy leader Jeremy Rockliff's "hayman" political billboard was reincarnated in a policeman's costume after it was burnt earlier this month.

At the weekend the sign - dressed as a nurse this time - was burnt again.

"It's a bit disappointing," Cr Rockliff said.

"We were just adding a bit of amusement for passers-by to an otherwise boring election campaign."

The campaign signs were built in a paddock on Jeremy Rockliff's farm at Sassafras and could be seen off the Bass Highway.

The fire that destroyed the original version of the hayman was treated as suspicious by police.

"This time it was burnt in the early hours of Sunday morning," Mr Rockliff said.

"[The fire] wasn't as dangerous as previously because we'd had the irrigator over the area a few times so that it wasn't as dry - just in case anyone was stupid enough to try to burn it. We irrigated to mitigate against the danger.

"It's disappointing it was targeted and I think we've done our dash this time.

"We didn't want it to be a danger to anything.

"We really appreciated the volunteer fire brigade's efforts and we're mindful of the fact we don't like being a hassle to anyone.